Summer in the Philippines is often the highest temperature of the year. And with this weather, it's the ideal time to travel across the country and enjoy some sunny adventures with family and friends. The heat, on the other hand, can have an effect on our overall health—we're more prone to dehydration and intestinal difficulties, which can ruin the fun.
Make the most of these relaxing months by remaining healthy and fueling your body with nutritious foods. Dr. Eca Lorenzo, internal medicine specialist and functional medicine practitioner, and Filipino plant-based company Sekaya recommend changes to our regular eating habits that will keep us energized throughout the summer.
Take advantage of fresh produce
Make the most of seasonal crops. April and May are prime months for fresh vegetables, with farmers harvesting crops and our own backyards brimming with goodies. "At this point, you observe that local in-season fruits such as mango, guyabano, coconut, rambutan, santol, pomelo, and pineapple are now more easily accessible at your local grocery store or market. Dr. Lorenzo says, "This can assist give more color and variety to your plates, helping you to obtain as many nutrients as possible." "It's also important to stay hydrated by eating more vegetables with high water content, such as lettuce, tomato, and broccoli, and add spinach and eggplant to your diet."
Go for lighter meals
During hot days, the digestive system may slow down because more energy is expended to maintain the body from overheating. "Avoid eating large meals this summer to allow your digestive system to keep up with everything going on in your body," recommends Dr. Lorenzo.
"To minimize bloating, remember to control your servings and chew your food slowly."
To avoid overeating, keep some healthy snacks on hand between meals, such as veggie sticks and dips, trail mixes, and salad cups. "This is also an opportunity to consume extra fiber, which is beneficial to digestion," informs Dr. Lorenzo.
Choose your cold treats wisely
Instead of ice cream and sugary drinks, try fruit smoothies or botanically infused beverages. "When ingested in large quantities, sugar can actually cause dehydration," Dr. Lorenzo warns. "The best method to quench your thirst is to drink water." Yet, if you want anything more, delicious, go the healthy path by making smoothies with the freshest fruits and no additional sugar, or add ice to your favorite herbal infusions."
Sekaya Botanical Infusion
The plant-based brand’s line of botanical blends made from organic ingredients with wellness benefits like easing digestive issues and boosting immunity can also be added to one’s hydration fix. They are so easy to prepare. Just steep a bag or two in freshly boiled water and infuse for 3-4 minutes, then add ice or put it inside the fridge for a refreshing healthy drink.
Observe food safety practices
Dr. Lorenzo reminds that cases of food poisoning and gastroenteritis can be quite common during summertime. “Food poisoning and gastroenteritis due to bacteria or virus have similar symptoms like an upset stomach and vomiting. Both are caused by unhygienic or contaminated food and water,” she adds. “Prevent this from happening by following food prep standards like washing your hands when handling ingredients, making sure fruits and veggies are washed before eating, and ensuring that meat is cooked through. Also, avoid leaving food and water out for hours, especially under the heat of the summer sun.”
Summer is a fantastic time to rest, relax, and unwind, but the heat may also be harmful to our health. Keep good eating habits and even add a few new ones to prevent the summer blues and keep having fun throughout the season.
Sekaya is a Filipino plant-based business that offers natural, science-backed products to help you achieve your health and wellness goals. Sekaya is part of UNILAB's natural goods business, Synnovate.
Discover more about how Sekaya's plant-based solutions can help you and obtain health tips and information by visiting https://www.sekaya.com.ph/ and following @sekayaph on Facebook and Instagram.
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